Declaration of Independence at the Bowdoin College Museum of Art

The Bowdoin College Museum of Art is the last stop on a statewide tour of a rare copy of the Declaration of Independence. Organized by Maine Historical Society, the Declaration will be on display in the Rotunda at the museum from October 30 to October 31. Free, timed-tickets are required and can be reserved through Maine Historical Society’s tour website: https://mainehistory.rezgo.com/details/425505/declaration-of-independence-tour-bowdoin-college-museum-of-art

This final tour stop represents the culmination of one Maine’s most treasured historical artifacts visiting each of the state’s 16 counties, including ours, between July and October 2026, offering residents a unique opportunity to see and reflect on one of the nation’s founding documents during the 250th anniversary of American independence.

The document is one of just 26 surviving copies of the historic Dunlap Broadside, printed in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, to announce American independence to the colonies. Maine Historical Society is privileged to steward this rare artifact and share it with us.

While at the Museum, be sure to visit “USA @ 250,” a major exhibition organized on the occasion of the United States’ 250th anniversary that explores the nation’s history through a series of exceptional artworks created since 1776.

Bowdoin College is committed to providing an accessible and welcoming environment. Please contact the Events Office (events@bowdoin.edu or 207-725-3433) with any questions regarding the accessibility of this event and/or to request accommodations. Please note: some accommodations require advance notice and may require documentation of a disabling condition.